Tyson to lay off 150 poultry plant workers

‘Changes in production needs’ led to decision to temporarily lay off employees at facility in Van Buren, Arkansas

Tyson Foods notified about 150 employees at its poultry processing plant in Van Buren, Arkansas, that they would be temporarily laid off from work at the end of the month.

The company’s decision to lay off workers there was based on “changes in production needs,” according to a statement from Tyson Foods spokesman Worth Sparkman.

People affected by the layoffs, Sparkman added, may be eligible to work at other locations in the River Valley and northwest Arkansas, and Tyson Foods will be assisting with the application process.

In addition, the Van Buren Chamber of Commerce, stated that it will work with Tyson Foods to offer assistance to affected workers. In a statement given to KSFM, the organization stated: “While such announcements are difficult for any community, (the chamber) is hopeful that those affected will find gainful employment at one of the city’s many other respected companies or will have other opportunities at nearby Tyson facilities. We value our partnership with Tyson and their many employees and look forward to working with them in the future.”